Q&A · 3:22:27-3:22:48

How long-range missiles restore the escort's surface-strike role

Long-range surface-to-surface missiles let carrier escorts add another offensive layer to the surface fight.

Question

How do long-range surface-to-surface missiles change the relationship between aircraft carriers and their escorts?

Short answer

They give escorts useful long-range striking power in the surface fight and add another offensive layer to the carrier group.

Notes

Greater missile range changes the division of labour within a carrier group. Escorts gain renewed usefulness in offensive surface warfare because they can engage at longer distances. That gives the commander another layer of striking power alongside the air wing.